I know what you mean. Half the time I am making the quilt for a specific person/occasion and when it's done I send it off.
On the other hand I've made quilts for the challenge of it and keep the quilt tops till they're needed. I've never had someone want a quilt top that I made before it was "spoken for" and finished.
But for sure, I've had to learn to "give them up" totally. That means, you never know how family/friends will take care of your creations and you need to just "let them go" physically and mentally. Not everyone has the sentimental feelings you have for the quilt. After all it took you MANY hours of preparation, creation, sewing, etc. to get it to the "finish line".
But, actually most of the recipients of my quilts appreciate the gift, the sentiment, the quality, thoughtfulness, etc.
Only one used a lap quilt for their dog. Oh well.